Members of the Windham-Windsor regional group of Third Act Vermont (TA VT) took a field trip to Montpelier on January 30th. We had a great day at the Legislature. My goals included having more members of Third Act Vermont learn their way around the State House, observe committee meetings, witness a floor session in the House of Representatives, learn more about how our state government works and feel empowered to take an active role.
I also wanted legislators to know that Third Act is a nationwide organization of people over 60 taking action to protect the environment and democracy and active in Vermont. In total there were a dozen members of TA VT present from Windham and Windsor Counties and a few people from Franklin joined us and watched what our representatives and senators were doing. We had many chances to make new connections and build existing relationships. As I see it, this all lays the groundwork for future advocacy for the environment and democracy.
We want to thank Patrick Flood, formerly a member of the TA VT Coordinating Committee, who led us on a tour of the building and escorted us to the Climate Caucus in another building. His depth of experience and understanding of how our government works was wonderful. He generously shared about three hours with us and patiently answered questions and showed us the ins and outs at our seat of government.
We planned our visit to coincide with the biweekly Climate Caucus noon meeting where members of the Senate and House of Representatives meet together to discuss climate legislation. We were warmly welcomed. At the end of the day, I knew I had reached my goals. It was great to have this adventure together and get to know members of our regional group better. I hope everyone involved with Third Act Vermont gets a chance this legislative session to visit our State House in Montpelier! Laurel Green
I asked the people who participated in our “field trip” to comment about what was important for them from their time at the state capitol.
“I appreciate the openness of our Vermont Statehouse. I recently had occasion to enter the New York State capitol in Albany, and I had to pass through security as tight as what the TSA does at airports. By comparison, in Montpelier the entrances are not guarded and there is a clear sense of being welcome. There is a good reason that our capitol is called the people’s house!” Steve Crofter
“I felt it was significant to meet Becca White, my senator personally, and then to see her at work as co-chair of the climate caucus. She impressed me as the type of younger and personable champion for climate action that Vermont needs.” Steve Dock
“The other part I loved in general was I saw a lot of women in leadership, and they seemed like real people who were approachable and competent and caring and thoughtful. I liked that some were in suits and heels and some were in more casual wear and nobody cared.” Elizabeth Crawford
“The Statehouse is clearly a place where a lot of very motivated and extremely busy people operate.” Chuck Gregory
“Everything went very well and certainly met my expectations. Probably the most important thing I got from the trip was a first-hand appreciation for how the state government works.” Jon Hart
“It was fun. I love our statehouse.” Melody Reed